Dubai is eyeing an underground network, Umrah bookings are dipping, rain is lingering and Abu Dhabi has a AED30,000 warning. Your GCC update is here. 5 GCC stories, one scroll
5 GCC Updates For Today!
1 Dubai Is Studying An Underground Network
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is studying an integrated underground network to move people, goods and services. RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer revealed the idea at the Mohammed bin Rashid Leadership Forum this week, but no route, cost or opening date has been named. It would sit alongside projects already under way, including the Dubai Loop, whose first phase is a 6.4km route with four stations, and the Gold Line, the city’s first fully underground metro line.
2. Riyadh Airport Closure Reduces Umrah Demand
Umrah demand from the UAE has softened after incidents reported about Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport. Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation authority has extended the closure until 17 October, and travel agents told Gulf News that many pilgrims are waiting for clarity before booking. UAE carriers including Emirates, Etihad and flydubai have also cancelled Riyadh flights this week. Regular business travel to Saudi Arabia continues, they said, while demand for November and December trips elsewhere remains strong.
3. UAE Weather Stays Unsettled
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) expects unsettled conditions to continue until the weekend, with rain in parts of the country, winds of up to 50km/h and blowing dust that can reduce visibility. Clouds in the east are likely to bring rain on Friday and Saturday, with wet weather forecast in the north-east. Drive carefully on wet roads and avoid areas prone to flash flooding.
4. MOTN Festival Turns 10
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Abu Dhabi’s Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival returns for its tenth edition with more than 50 experiences, organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. It opens in Al Dhafra and Al Ain from 28 November to 2 December, then moves to the Abu Dhabi Corniche from 9 December 2026 to 3 January 2027. Details are on motn.ae.
5. AED30,000 Fine For Blocking Upper-Floor Windows
The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has warned that fitting iron bars or fencing that blocks upper-floor windows can attract a AED30,000 fine (about $8,000) if it obstructs rescue and firefighting. The rule falls under Clause 67 of Cabinet Resolution No. 24 of 2012 and covers existing buildings and those under construction. Private houses and villas are exempt. Building owners and developers should make sure window barriers do not block emergency access.
Check your flight status with your airline before heading to the airport for any Riyadh-bound trip, and follow official NCM updates for the latest forecast.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Radu Daniel ( MRD ) from Pexels
FAQs
Will it rain in the UAE this weekend?
The NCM expects clouds in the east to bring rain on Friday and Saturday, with wet weather in the north-east. Winds can reach 50km/h, and Dubai is forecast at around 35°C on Saturday and Sunday.
When is the MOTN Festival 2026?
It runs in Al Dhafra and Al Ain from 28 November to 2 December 2026. It then moves to the Abu Dhabi Corniche from 9 December 2026 to 3 January 2027.
